Chris Holt

Sheffield Wednesday skipper Glenn Loovens says only togetherness on the pitch and in the stands will help them prevent two defeats turning into something more serious.

The Owls continue their quest to secure at least a play-off place today at Hillsborough when one of the challengers for a top six spot, Norwich City head to Sheffield.

Much has been made of the discontent among some supporters, notably on social media, desperate to see their side produce the kind of flair that rocketed Wednesday to Wembley last season.

Although recognising that those who turn up to watch the team have a right to an opinion on performances, Loovens feels that the squad themselves are best placed to judge that.

And he says that if a player needs to be criticised, then he will tell them personally.

“I don’t do a lot on social media, or read many newspapers,” said Loovens. “It’s important what we do out every day on the pitch. If I see people slacking off, or not doing their job, I will be the first one to let everyone know.

“I am not too bothered about people who do not see us work every day, what they think of things. I think in this group of players we have a lot of characters who will correct each other if we feel like someone is not giving 100 per cent.”

Loovens has now called on the Hillsborough faithful to back the team in what is a crucial stage of the campaign.

“The fans support us, of course they can give their opinions - that’s not a problem,” he added. “It’s more important we try to help each other, the fans as well, when they see we have a tough time, to get behind us.

“It’s always easy when someone is down to stamp your foot on them. At this moment in time, I think it’s more important that we are behind each other.

“We need to be in it altogether. We can’t do it without them, and they can’t do it without us.”

Despite those two defeats, to Brentford and Leeds United, Loovens says the mood in the camp has not been unduly effected and that the team are bursting to get out onto the pitch against Norwich, to rediscover the form that saw Wednesday win four on the bounce before losing to the Bees.

“Morale is fine,” he said. “Of course you’re not happy if you don’t win, but we have a group of players who cannot wait for the next game to come, to correct these things.